PM Modi, Putin to Hold Talks Ahead of BRICS Summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to hold bilateral talks in New Delhi on September 11, a day before the BRICS Summit begins, with defence, trade, nuclear energy and wider strategic cooperation expected to dominate the agenda.
Modi-Putin Talks Set for September 11
The meeting has been confirmed by the Kremlin ahead of Putin’s visit to India for the BRICS Summit scheduled for September 12-13.
The talks will give Modi and Putin another opportunity to review the India-Russia strategic partnership amid major geopolitical pressures, including the continuing Ukraine conflict and Western sanctions against Moscow.
The two leaders have maintained regular contact despite growing international scrutiny of India’s trade and energy relationship with Russia.
Su-57 Fighter and Defence Cooperation on Agenda
Defence cooperation is expected to feature prominently, including Russia’s proposal involving the Su-57 fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
Moscow has expressed willingness to discuss technology cooperation and potential localisation linked to the aircraft, although India has not announced any decision to acquire the fighter.
The two sides are also expected to review existing military-technical cooperation and opportunities for greater defence manufacturing in India.
Nuclear Energy and Trade Ties in Focus
Civil nuclear cooperation is likely to be another major subject, with Russia indicating interest in developing additional nuclear power projects in India beyond the existing Kudankulam partnership.
Trade and payment mechanisms are also expected to be discussed as both countries seek to expand economic ties while navigating international sanctions and financial restrictions.
Russia has said it remains open to different payment mechanisms and supports greater use of national currencies where practical.
The Modi-Putin meeting will take place against the backdrop of India’s 2026 BRICS chairmanship, with New Delhi hosting leaders from the expanded grouping.
